The authority previously said that Mr Parker was contractually entitled to receive the employer’s contribution to early retirement of £298,371.

Janet Greig, regional organiser for Unison, said: “Members are naturally concerned about the amount of money involved in granting this early retirement package given the gravity of the cuts proposed by the council as a result of the Government’s austerity agenda, and especially in light of the granting of £300,000 to the previous chief executive in June 2012.

“To enhance the pension of a chief officer who gave notice of retirement two years ago is objectionable to say the least in the current climate and an insult to those workers who face compulsory job losses.

"Unison members will be lobbying the budget meeting on Monday making it loud and clear that enough is enough.”